12 Sweet Summer Activities in Cochrane

Looking for a summer escape that’s full of fresh air, big skies, and unforgettable moments? Just 20 minutes west of Calgary in the small town of Cochrane, cowboy culture and outdoor adventure converge—and summer is one of the best times to experience it all.

You may know Cochrane for our legendary MacKay’s Ice Cream, but have you ever stuck around to explore the town once you’ve finished your scoop? Whether you’re into live music, biking, golfing, or maybe even a game of paintball, our beautiful Alberta town offers the perfect basecamp for your summer activities. Here are 12 ways to make the most of a sweet summer in and around Cochrane.

1. Catch live country music vibes

Get ready for a boot-stompin’ good time at Bow Valley Boot Stomp, Cochrane’s very own small-town country music festival (July 18 & 19, 2025). Over half of the artist lineup comes from right here in Alberta! In addition to the live music, enjoy food trucks, beer gardens, family-friendly fun, and even on-site camping for the full weekend experience.

2. Swing into summer on scenic greens

Play a round of golf at The Links of GlenEagles, an 18-hole course set along cliffs towering 200 feet above the Bow River Valley. With dramatic mountain views and challenging terrain, it’s ranked among Alberta’s Top 10 Public Golf Courses—and welcomes golfers of all skill levels. For something slightly more casual, head to Cochrane Golf Club for a relaxed nine-hole round or game of mini golf. Even your dog is welcome to join the fun!

3. Walk with wolfdogs

Just northwest of Cochrane in a peaceful 160-acre forested setting, Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is one of Alberta’s best-kept secrets. Home to 57 wolfdogs, the sanctuary offers a rare and unforgettable chance to learn about these animals. For an up-close experience, book an interactive tour that takes you inside one of the enclosures. Prefer to explore at your own pace? Opt for a self-guided sanctuary walk, where you can observe the wolfdogs from afar.

4. Ride, laugh, repeat at Calaway Park

Spend a day with the kids (or just feeling like a kid again!) at Western Canada’s largest outdoor family amusement park. With 32 family-friendly rides, a 3D theatre, and tasty treats, Calaway Park has something for everyone to enjoy. Want to beat the heat? Head to the splash zone. Feeling competitive? Challenge your family to a race game like Water Gun Fun or Wac-a-Mole. The best part is, unlimited rides are included for just one gate price, and there’s free parking. 

5. Get your adrenaline pumping with paintball

Located just outside of Waiparous Village northwest of Cochrane, Capture the Flag Outdoor Paintball & Airsoft offers 116 acres of forested terrain and a lineup of high-energy activities—think paintball, axe throwing, and combat archery tag. It’s a fun, safe way to spark some friendly competition among friends or family, and even kids aged 10+ can join in.

6. Experience the Rockies from above

Looking for even more thrills? Take off on a private helicopter tour with LR Helicopters. Departing from Springbank Airport east of Cochrane year-round, these scenic flights range from 30 to 90 minutes, flying over stunning landscapes like Bragg Creek, the Elbow Range, and even downtown Calgary. For a next-level experience, book the Picnic on the Peaks tour—complete with a gourmet mountaintop meal. Or, try your hand at flying with a Flight Training Experience, guided by a certified instructor.

7. Sip a sweet summer drink

Take a sunny afternoon drive north of Cochrane on Highway 22 to Fallentimber Meadery in Water Valley. This family-run business offers delicious mead—a sparkling craft honey beverage unique to the region—along with local honey. Enjoy a tour and tasting in the cozy, welcoming space (be sure to pre-book), then unwind outside with a glass of mead or non-alcoholic Honey Kissed Soda. Try your hand at lawn games, and if you’re feeling hungry, grab a slice of pizza!

8. Check off a portion of the Trans Canada Trail

The historic Trans Canada Trail showcases 1,700 km of natural beauty. Grab your bike or lace up your hiking boots and plan your route with Alberta TrailNet and their Trans Canada Trail map. Start with an easy and scenic 2.2-km jaunt down Bearspaw Trail. The path winds along the north bank of the mighty Bow River, and connects the west side of Calgary’s Haskayne Park with Michael’s Creek in Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park.

9. Reel one in at Ghost River

Spend a hot summer day fishing the crystal clear waters of Ghost River. The river flows from the front ranges of the Canadian Rocky Mountains to join the Bow River at Ghost Lake, just 10 minutes west of Cochrane. You’re likely to reel in lake trout, mountain whitefish, rainbow trout, westlope cutthroat trout, white sucker, burbot, or brook trout. Before you bait your line, don’t forget your fishing license! 

10. Sweat it out on a gravel bike 

Pedal hard! Hop on a gravel bike for a fun, technical challenge that blurs the lines between road riding and mountain biking. There are plenty of routes for you to explore right from town, with many 2- to 3-hour loops with very light or no traffic to interrupt your pace. Check out Gravel Maps for local routes before you hit the road. For a 40 to 50-km route, head south along Towers Trail and turn east onto Township Road 252.

11. Change your perspective on horseback

Saddle up, cowpoke! Whether you’re a riding beginner or a seasoned pro, Saddle Peak Trail Rides will have you feeling comfortable on horseback. Learn the basics with a 1- to 2-hour ride, or experience the full awe of the Canadian Rocky Mountains with an unforgettable multi-day ride off the beaten path. Discover a new point of view from the backs of these gentle giants as you traverse picturesque grasslands and foothills. End your trip with a lodge ride to The Crossing at Ghost River, Ya Ha Tinda, or Panther Dormer Region. 

12. Go off-grid with backcountry camping

Pitch a tent with insane views of the mountains! Sitting around a fire, roasting marshmallows under a star-spangled sky will never be the same after you experience backcountry camping in Alberta, especially the Cochrane area. 

While there are plenty of campgrounds for a taste of the great outdoors, crown land camping provides you with a more secluded and private experience to connect with nature. Take a look at the 19 Public Land Use Zones and once you’ve chosen your destination, pick up your Public Lands Camping Pass. 

Explore more things to do in Cochrane to plan your sweetest summer yet! Or, join our email list to stay up to date on summer events.